The following section shall be inserted in the M1Gas Act 1986 after section 8—
(1)The Secretary of State may by order amend section 4(2)(d) or 8(5)(b) above or section 10(5) or 14(3) or (4)(b) below by substituting—
(a)where the limit is for the time being expressed by reference to a number of therms—
(i)such lower number of therms as he considers appropriate; or
(ii)such lower limit, expressed by reference to a number of kilowatt hours, as he considers appropriate; or
(b)where the limit is for the time being expressed by reference to a number of kilowatt hours, such lower number of kilowatt hours as he considers appropriate.
(2)An order under subsection (1) above may be made so as to provide for the number specified in one provision to differ from that for the time being specified in any of the other provisions.
(3)If the Secretary of State considers that it is appropriate to remove the limit for the time being specified in sections 4(2)(d) and 8(5)(b) above and section 14(3) and (4)(b) below he may make an order repealing—
(a)in section 4(2)(d) above, the words from “at rates” to the end;
(b)section 8(5) above;
(c)in section 14(3) below, the words from “but this subsection” to the end; and
(d)in section 14(4) below, the words from “if either” to the end.
(4)Before making any order under this section, the Secretary of State shall consult the Director.”